WR Nicks eager to get back in the game vs. Patriots

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Wide receiver Hakeem Nicks hopes to play in the Giants' preseason finale against the New England Patriots Wednesday.

The Associated Press

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Wide receiver Hakeem Nicks hopes to play in the Giants' preseason finale against the New England Patriots Wednesday.

Nicks broke his right foot during Organized Team Activities this spring and started training camp on the physically unable to perform list. He was put on the active roster just before the team left the University at Albany two weeks ago, and he started running at full speed in practice Sunday.

"It looks pretty good," Nicks said. "I'm supposed to be able to take some live snaps this week. That's what coach (Tom Coughlin) told me yesterday when I asked him. Doctor said the same thing, so that's what we look forward to doing."

Nicks was the Giants' top receiver in the playoffs last season.

Cornerback Terrell Thomas said the Giants are being cautious as he rehabilitates his right knee.

Thomas, who had reconstructive surgery to repair his anterior cruciate ligament last year, aggravated the injury days into training camp this summer. He went to see three doctors and the consensus was that he did not need more surgery.

Thomas, who was projected as a starter, has been running on an underwater treadmill, working on an elliptical and doing squatting, lunging and other exercises. He hopes to start running Wednesday or Thursday. He wrote on his blog this past weekend that he wanted to play in the season opener against Dallas Sept. 5.

"I know there was a big buzz about the comment on my blog, and you know, it's in the doctor's hands," he said. "That's what I'm shooting for as a player. I'm never going to sell myself short. I always want to compete and I've been pushing myself very hard in the weight room and in the training room and I feel great. I feel like I'm improving, my leg feels great."

The Giants placed defensive tackle Chris Canty and tight end Travis Beckum on the reserve-physically unable to perform list in getting their roster to 75 players.

The Giants also terminated the contract of veteran cornerback Antwaun Molden and placed rookie offensive lineman Brandon Mosley, a fourth-round draft pick, on injured reserve with an ankle injury.